THERE were times late in 2025 when Mitch McGovern now concedes that he wasn’t sure he’d make it to two recent milestones in Navy Blue.

So, despite the clear frustration shared by everyone in Carlton colours so far in 2026, he’s grateful he still gets to do what he loves.

McGovern was without a contract when trade period came to an end, before ultimately coming to terms of a one-year deal that saw him remain at IKON Park.

After five games this season, McGovern has reached that elusive century in Navy Blue, featured in his 150th career game against former side Adelaide to open Gather Round and - after a return to the Blues’ forward line - leads the Blues’ goalkicking after five games.

“After my situation last year, I’m just happy to be out there, playing a role and having fun with the boys,” McGovern told media on Friday.

In the wash-up from the 28-point defeat to Adelaide, McGovern said the outlook on the game depended on whether you had a “glass half full or glass half empty” mindset.

The first quarter was arguably the Blues’ most powerful showing of the season, kicking seven goals and looking dangerous every time they went forward, while the second half saw them dominate large portions of the territory battle trying to search for a win.

But this week, it was a second-quarter lapse which frustrated the Blues, conceding five goals in the opening eight minutes of the second term, which was the decisive margin on the night.

For McGovern and the Blues, he stressed the importance of committing to the long-term adage the Blues have stuck by in recent years.

“We’re all united as a footy club. Our mantra is ’Stronger Together’ and we’re building towards that.

“The results haven’t come our way, but we’re seeing bits and pieces of what we’re trying to produce… We’re united on the footy field and we know our best is still coming.

“We think we should have a better record than being 1-4, but that’s the way it works.”

The Blues will have the chance to look to improve that record when it hosts the old enemy at the MCG on Thursday night, in the latest instalment of the Peter Mac Cup.

“We’re always looking to make a statement, especially against Collingwood. Our fans will flock in with numbers and the atmosphere is going to be fantastic, as it always is with Carlton and Collingwood.

“We’re really looking forward to putting our foot forward again, hopefully with a four-quarter performance and getting a good win.”